What we put on our plates plays a profound role in our ability to maintain overall wellness and recover from disease. For Preeti Soni, an integrative oncology dietitian at City of Hope Orange County in Irvine, the goal is helping people harness the healing power of food – without sacrificing flavor, culture or the simple joy of eating.
This food-as-medicine approach took center stage at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center last month, when Soni and Dr. Richard T. Lee, Cherng family director’s chair for the Center for Integrative Oncology, partnered with Panda Express head chef Jimmy Wang for a live cooking demonstration. For Wang, the program is personal: His father was treated at City of Hope.
We spoke with Soni to learn how the principles used to support patients can be applied in our own kitchens.
How does food as medicine apply to those looking to boost wellness?
Food doesn’t replace medical treatment, but it can support the body, mind and quality of life. For disease prevention, it’s really about the overall pattern of what we eat. A plant-forward or Mediterranean-style diet that includes a variety of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, healthy fats and lean sources of protein can provide fiber, vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients.
Chronic inflammation drives many health risks. What anti-inflammatory staples should everyone keep in their pantry?
I like to see beans and lentils, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and a variety of herbs and spices. Ginger and turmeric are wonderful examples because they bring both flavor and plant compounds to a meal.
Then we want to complement those pantry staples with plenty of colorful vegetables and fruits. A plant-forward eating pattern gives us a great framework because it emphasizes fiber-rich plant foods, healthy fats and a variety of minimally processed foods.
“If I could give everyone one simple nutrition habit, it would be to make plant-based foods a regular part of every meal.”
Preeti Soni, integrative oncology dietitian at City of Hope Orange County
What flavor tricks or ingredient swaps can make healthful dishes taste great?
Herbs, spices, garlic, ginger, citrus, toasted nuts and seeds can add a lot of flavor and texture. Cooking methods can also make a big difference – roasting vegetables, for example, can bring out their natural sweetness.
How do you advise family cooks who are helping a loved one through illness or recovery?
My biggest advice is to meet your loved one where they are. A food they enjoyed before treatment may suddenly taste different, or they may not have the appetite for a full meal. So don’t be afraid to adapt. That could mean offering smaller, more frequent meals, changing the texture, adjusting seasonings or finding ways to incorporate adequate protein and calories when appropriate.
What one habit can make the biggest impact on long‑term health?
If I could give everyone one simple nutrition habit, it would be to make plant-based foods a regular part of every meal. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, and include whole grains and legumes regularly. These foods provide dietary fiber along with a wide range of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds.
Center of supplements
Irvine is home to many companies that promote wellness, specifically nutrition boosts and supplement makers. Some might be well-known, such as the online retail shop iHerb, which has been making wellness more accessible to everyone since 1996 and has its headquarters at Spectrum Terrace. Other companies are makers of ubiquitous protein products and vitamins that are available at Costco, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods Market and more. Here are just a few Irvine-based supplement businesses.
Awesome Aminos
Known for: Including nine essential amino acids with vitamins and minerals in a gummy to support steady energy and moods
Where: Venture Park
Fun fact: Founded by a health coach to combat missing amino acids in kids’ diets
Orgain
Known for: Protein shakes, powders and bars for adults and for kids
Where: Near Jamboree and Alton
Fun fact: Certified B Corporation, which aims to balance purpose and profit to positively impact the planet
Power Crunch
Known for: Wafer protein bars for adults and kids that are easier to digest than most
Where: On Alton near Barranca
Fun fact: Started by a world-champion bodybuilder to help his infant son with a more digestible protein
CalerieHealth
Known for: Promoting fasting and calorie restriction to increase longevity
Where: Spectrum District
Fun fact: In addition to oral supplements, the company offers skin-care products such as facial serums, masks and lotions to promote cellular rejuvenation.
Naturade
Known for: 100 years of plant-based nutrition, including meal replacement shakes, plant protein-based items and herbal wellness products
Where: On Von Karman near Main
Fun fact: The owners partnered with Magic Johnson to amplify the company’s message and reach.
